3. Melker Karlsson
I had you for a second, didn’t I? No, the Sharks shouldn’t trade Erik Karlsson. Even if they wanted to, who’s touching that contract? Nobody. Melker Karlsson, however, is a different story. He’s in the last year of his deal before he becomes an unrestricted free agent. The 29-year-old forward has a $2 million cap hit.
Karlsson would add something to a contender’s bottom-six forward group. In 42 games this season, he has three goals and four assists for seven points. However, scoring isn’t his specialty. Karlsson’s specialty is his penalty killing.
He averages nearly two minutes per game shorthanded and leads the NHL’s best penalty killing group. Karlsson would be a great addition to any contender who’s looking to bolster their special teams.
Karlsson’s also fairly cheap with just a $2 million cap hit. He has a history of being a reliable bottom-six forward. Last season, for example, Karlsson had 16 points. He’s usually hovered right around that.
Teams Who Could Be Interested
I could see the Edmonton Oilers being interested, though the Sharks might have to retain some salary to make it work. They certainly need forwards to help jump-start their bottom six and Karlsson will be one of the more affordable options.